“Africa’s time is now”—Dr. Bawumia inspires with digital vision at Cambridge conference

Ghana’s former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, spoke passionately at the Cambridge Africa Business Conference. He rallied a global audience around Africa’s digital awakening.

Dr. Bawumia declared, “Africa’s time is now.” He emphasized that the continent has what it needs to lead in innovation. However, leaders must commit to bold, tech-driven reforms.

Using Ghana as an example, he highlighted how digitization improved government transparency. He mentioned the national digital property address system and the Ghana Card as unique identifiers. Additionally, he discussed a mobile money interoperability platform that serves as a model for other countries.

He pointed out that digital platforms help governments collect revenue efficiently. They also enable precise social interventions and combat corruption through traceable transactions. “When the systems work,” he said, “the people benefit.” His remarks focused on building trust in public institutions with smart technology.

Dr. Bawumia stressed the importance of creating homegrown digital solutions in Africa. “We cannot rely on imported systems that do not understand our unique challenges,” he warned. He encouraged entrepreneurs and developers to drive African innovation forward.

Throughout the conference, attendees praised his clarity and vision. His central message was clear: digital transformation is essential, not a luxury. For many present, his speech was more than just a keynote; it was a call to action.